Weeds

Weeds are a serious environmental and agricultural problem throughout Australia, costing in excess of $4 billion each year in management and lost production, with a similar figure estimated for impacts on environmental conservation, amenity and tourism (Australian Weeds Strategy 2006).

Pests

Pest animals are a serious environmental and agricultural problem throughout Australia, costing the Australian economy an estimated $720 million per annum. In the Molonglo catchment, pest animals introduced since European settlement have thrived on both public and private land. Foxes have reached high densities in rural areas and sightings of goats and deer have increased. Pest animals impact on our environment and economy in a number of ways. Some species prey on native fauna and livestock, others damage soils and groundcover through grazing or compaction with their hooves; they are a vector for weeds and impact on the productivity of agricultural enterprises.